The building housing the Suwa Seriya headquarters in Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte has overcharged the rent by millions over the officially assessed value.
An audit by the National Audit Office (NAO) has revealed that as a result over Rs.05 million than the officially assessed value had been paid every year.
According to the NAO report, the building’s owner rejected the government’s valuation and submitted a separate, higher assessment, which was ultimately accepted contrary to regulations.
Regulations require that when leasing a building, the institution’s head must first obtain an assessment from the Chief Valuer. As per established procedures, such disputes should be referred to the relevant ministry secretary if the Chief Valuer’s assessment is not accepted.
However, the audit found this process was not followed.
In response, Suwa Seriya management told the NAO that a decision was taken at a Board of Directors meeting in March 2025 to forward the rental matter to the Secretary of the Ministry of Health for approval.
(Source: Aruna)